The Awkward Season

Much of the broader Church observes Lent - the 40 day period, not counting Sundays, before Easter. The Passion and Resurrection continue to significantly shape the identity of Jesus followers. And yet, as we live into our common mission at Trinity, we also recognize the significance of the incarnation and Jesus’ journey - all that comes before the cross - as we discover and embody the love of Jesus in the world. Therefore, lent is a season of pilgrimage, an awkward season in which we allow the weight of darkness to be named, felt, and ultimately redeemed as we journey with Jesus toward the cross and resurrection. It is also awkward to focus on these things on Sundays, the time (even during Lent) historically reserved for celebration and recognition of the resurrection. Throughout this season, we gather together in a posture of contemplation as we observe the darkness growing, lament over that which is dead, and repent in preparation for Easter. We are invited to release all that stands in our way and distracts us from God. We are invited to receive what God desires for us. We are invited to return to the world, open to new ways of being with Jesus in the unfolding Kingdom of God.

Discussion Prompts:

-Spend time in prayer, using a labyrinth. Click here to download paper copies of the prayer labyrinth. We are invited to release all that stands in our way and distracts us from God. We are invited to receive what God desires for us. We are invited to return to the world, open to new ways of being with Jesus in the unfolding Kingdom of God. As you released, received, and returned, what did you notice about God? About yourself?

-Read the gospel passage for the week again. What catches your attention? What word or phrase catches your attention or causes you to ask questions, piques curiosity, or maybe causes confusion? What images stay with you? What might God wish for you to discover and receive from this reading?

Resources & Music:

Lenten Lamentations - blog posts starting with day one (from 2017, but day by day you can follow and connect with daily - each day shares a story from history, reflection on scripture, confession and lament, and prayer; go to the bottom of linked page to click to subsequent days)

Parents: If your child especially connects with prayer labyrinths, you may want to invest in a handheld pewter labyrinth. Make your own using cardboard and sharpies, air-dry modeling clay, or masking tape on your carpet or rug. Pick any form that resonates with your family’s personality. However, although paper copies are simple, they can be just as meaningful.